Artist: Chrisette Michele
Venue: Spirit Square - Charlotte, NC
Date: 2.28.09

Once a year, the CIAA Basketball Tournament visits Charlotte, NC bringing along a whirlwind of events for participants and spectators of all ages; so many, in fact, that there’s rarely a slow moment during the entire weekend. But when Chrisette Michele takes the stage, trust me: you’ll be glad to slow it down. Presented by Intellectual Entertainment Group, this show was truly a treat for all in attendance.

A small yet energetic crowd of supporters filled the McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square in Charlotte to take in the silky smooth sounds of the Grammy award winning songstress on the final evening of the tournament, following the championship game. Humbly, she took to the stage in a slinky black dress and stylish heels, opening her set with Be OK, the third single from her debut album I Am. During her most popular hit, she entertained the crowd and one special male fan who obligingly caressed her leg as the crowd sang along to If I Have My Way. For the lovers in the audience, she performed Golden, the power ballad

“I’ve been hurt y’all,” Michele confessed as she showcased her new single Epiphany, the Ne-yo penned title track from her forthcoming sophomore album. She also disclosed that this album would be more personal, discussing the “sadder parts” of her life. For a closing number, she chose the crowd-moving Let’s Rock, on which she again treated the audience to some of her soaring vocals and scats of jazz. Overall, this was a great performance for Chrisette Michele – with no band or backup singers, she still managed to deliver a performance that matched and at times exceeded her vocal delivery on the recorded versions of her songs. Fresh off her Grammy win for Be OK, she’s now preparing for the release of her second project Epiphany, set to hit stores March 31.

Photos courtesy of Suavv Magazine.

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